📖 Meaning
An idiom metaphorically describing a high-minded official who maintains a lofty, carefree demeanor while in office. It evokes the image of leaning on one's official tablet while gazing at distant mountains, symbolizing detachment from worldly affairs and bureaucratic concerns.
📜 Origin Story
This idiom originates from 'Shishuo Xinyu' (A New Account of Tales of the World) by Liu Yiqing of the Southern Dynasties Song period. Wang Huizhi (Ziyuan), son of the famous calligrapher Wang Xizhi, served as a military advisor under General Huan. When Huan remarked that Wang had served long and should be properly promoted, Wang ignored the question, looked up, leaned his official tablet against his cheek, and said, 'The Western Mountains at dawn have refreshing air.' The phrase later came to symbolize a refined, detached attitude among scholar-officials.
💡 Example Usage
他做了半辈子闲官，每日拄笏看山，倒也自得其乐。
After holding a quiet sinecure for half his life, he spent each day leaning on his tablet gazing at the mountains, quite content in his own way.
🏷️ Category
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🔤 Quick Facts
- Chinese: 拄笏看山
- Pinyin: zhǔ hù kàn shān
- Literal Translation: lean on, ceremonial tablet, gaze at, mountain
- Category: Attitude
- Characters: 4